During the month of March there are specific days set aside to show appreciation for dental professionals. The first week is dental assistant appreciation week and March 6^th is dentist day. This is also a time to remind everyone about the importance of regular dental checkups. Everyone on the dental team has a unique role in supporting excellent oral health.

The different roles of dental professionals

• The dental assistant has many varied responsibilities from assisting the dentist during a variety of procedures, direct patient care, office management tasks and many more possibilities.
• The dental hygienist focuses on prevention. They will treat oral diseases to protect the teeth and gums with consideration of whole-body health.
• The dentist is your doctor of oral health. The dentist will evaluate, diagnosis, prevent, and treat diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity and associated structures and their impact on the human body.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the dentist

• Why do I need regular dental visits? Going to your dentist regularly will help ensure a preventive approach to your health care. When dental health problems are seen early, and treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. Also, some diseases or medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth.

• What are some examples of when I should see a dental professional?
  • It’s time for your regular dental checkup
  • Pain or swelling in your mouth, face, or neck
  • Gums are puffy or bleeding
  • Your mouth has spots or sores
  • Trouble eating, chewing, or swallowing
  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw Pain
  • You have medical conditions or are undergoing medical treatment
  • Pregnant

• How often should I visit the dentist? Every person is different. Some people need to visit the dentist twice a year; others may need more visits. 

• What can I expect during a dental checkup? A dental professional will review your recent medical history, examine your mouth, and decide whether you need x-rays. During the examination of your mouth your dental professional will check your jaw, gums, and teeth. An oral cancer screening is completed by holding your tongue with gauze and assessing the whole mouth. This examination will be used to create a treatment plan to ensure you have healthy gums and teeth.

• How can I maintain a healthy smile with the help of my dental professional? It is always best to be honest and formulate a plan to achieve optimal oral health. A treatment plan will be implemented, and proper home care will be discussed. Maintaining your oral health is an essential piece of your overall health.